There’s something special about fall in Michigan. Cooler weather arrives, leaves bloom with color before fading and falling, and legends of the state’s spookier side begin to emerge. If you’re keen on the creepier elements of autumn here in the Great Lakes State, we’ve got the perfect road trip for you. Hop in the car and get ready for a spine-tingling adventure at some of Michigan’s eeriest destinations.
Note: for the sake of travel time, this particular trip focuses on Michigan’s Lower Peninsula. If you can’t set aside a full day of driving, split the trip up into a multi-day adventure or simply save some spots for future outings! To access an adjustable version of the travel route we’ve crafted, please click here.
1. Terrace Inn and 1911 Restaurant (1549 Glendale Ave, Petoskey)
As its name suggests, this historic spot has long offered lodging and dining options for Michiganders. While most have appreciated the hotel’s charming decor and the on-site eatery’s finely crafted selections, others have reported spookier experiences. The inn has been the site of multiple deaths, including the tragic loss of a woman who fell and passed away while pregnant with twins. Whether you stop here for a quick meal or book a stay, you might just find yourself face-to-face with a spirit.
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2. Traverse City State Hospital (830 Cottageview Dr, Traverse City)
Now standing as part of the Village at Grand Traverse Commons (a large shopping, dining, and lodging complex), the original Traverse City State Hospital once served as a psychiatric treatment facility for Michiganders of all ages. It also housed patients suffering from illnesses like typhoid, polio, and tuberculosis - so it’s easy to imagine the dark and dreary events that might have occurred here. Today, guests can embark on tours of the grounds or simply admire the building’s exterior. Visitors should be prepared to encounter a few spooky vibes along the way.
While this locale now serves as a popular special event venue, it also boasts its fair share of ghost stories. Built in 1927, the estate’s primary purpose as a home for the family of businessman Dorr E. Felt was short-lived. His wife, Agnes, passed away in the house just months after it was completed - and Felt himself followed just a few years later. Today, visitors report everything from apparitions (perhaps the sad ghost of Agnes?) to strange sounds from the surrounding woods. Are you brave enough to check it out?
Don’t let its name fool you: the Holly Hotel no longer operates as a hotel, but instead serves as a restaurant. Of course, it did offer lodging during its early days, and legend has it that many of the original inn’s guests still linger today in the form of spirits. From reports of a ghostly little girl who plays with a meat cleaver to unexplained orbs in photographs, there’s no shortage of spookiness here.
This Detroit institution was built in the late 1800s and has served all sorts of purposes over the years, operating as everything from a hospice to a private mansion. Today, its primary use is as a restaurant, but spooky remnants of the building’s past life are frequently reported. Guests have witnessed empty elevators moving between floors, unexplained footsteps, and glasses shattering with no explanation. Paranormal enthusiasts will have a field day as they dine here.
6. Ganong Cemetery (3036 S Henry Ruff Rd, Inkster)
During the fall months, strolling through a cemetery offers the chance to appreciate colorful foliage and crisp weather while experiencing a dose of spookiness. Ganong Cemetery in Westland has earned a reputation as one of the state’s most haunted graveyards, having served as a burial site since the 1830s. The cemetery is no longer open for new burials, but some who have stopped by have reported spotting a "woman in white" or even experiencing car accidents in front of the entryway. Proceed with caution!
7. River Raisin National Battlefield Park (1403 E Elm Ave, Monroe)
If you’re a history buff and a fan of all things paranormal, you’ll absolutely love this park. During the War of 1812, the Battle of River Raisin took place right here on Michigan soil, ultimately resulting in the deaths of over 500 American soldiers - along with Indigenous participants and British troops. Over the years, visitors to the battlefield park have reported everything from disembodied cries to ghostly apparitions. You’ll certainly want to keep your eyes peeled for spirits when you stop by.
Have you visited these or any other supposedly haunted sites throughout the Great Lakes State? We would love to hear about your spookiest encounters, so share your experiences in the Facebook comments or recommend a must-visit haunted locale by filling out our nomination form here.
Best Travel Gifts of 2024, Hand-picked by Our Travel Experts
If you're looking for gifting ideas for the travelers in your life this holiday season, check out our list of our favorite, tried and true travel gifts.
Welcome to Hand-Picked, a curated series highlighting the travel gear and goods our staff truly love. From practical essentials to playful extras, these are the items that make travel fun—and shopping even better! Each pick is independently selected by our editors, and if you make a purchase through our links, Only In Your State may earn a commission.
There is nothing that makes me happier than picking out the perfect gift. Friends often ask me for ideas of what to gift to their family, children, partners, friends... the challenge of finding that special item (or experience) is my favorite kind of adrenaline rush. And because of this, the holiday season is like my version of sky diving.
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Our team of travel experts here at Only In Your State joined me in selecting our favorite travel gifts of the season. We've hand-picked 24 gifts that we own and love and would joyfully wrap up with a shiny bow for other travel lovers in our lives. We've chosen a variety of options, from candles to books, to the perfect travel shoes and bags. There is also a wide range of prices for any gifting budget. Pick out a few to gift this season and maybe even send some of these ideas to those who are shopping for you. It may be the holiday season, but it is also always travel season in our minds.
Why We Love Them: How fun is this candle? I love picking out meaningful gifts and this one is perfect for the woman in your life who can't help but plan another trip. Or, maybe this is you and this candle needs to make its way into your own stocking! The LEADO store on Amazon actually has several unique gifts and it's worth checking out. Where to Buy Them: Shop this candle and more on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 Bonus: Manager of Editorial Megan Shute swears by these rechargeable USB lighters – add one to your favorite candle lover's stocking, and they will not be disappointed.
Why We Love It: We've tried some pretty spiffy eye masks, but have you ever experienced an eye massager? The Bob & Brad EyeOasis 2 is as relaxing as it gets. With adjustable pressure & heat settings, this is a must-have if you want to tune out the world and treat yourself. It's the first thing we reach for when we feel a migraine coming on! Where To Buy It: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $59.99 (normally $74.99)
Why We Love Them: It's safe to say I am in my sneaker era and I know I'm not alone. When I discovered Kizik shoes, especially their sneakers, I felt like I discovered gold at the end of the rainbow. I love that the brand is size inclusive (I have big feet) and you literally just slip these on and go. Hands-free shoes! This makes them perfect for travel and the fact that these go with everything means no over-packing necessary. Where to Buy Them: Check out the Milan sneaker and several other styles (boots, too!) on the Kizik website. Price (at time of publication): $149
Why We Love Them: I discovered Frankie Jean while in Austin with my daughter and once I saw the Y'ALL Baseball Cap, I knew it would make the perfect souvenir -- and travel hat! I always travel with a baseball hat; they're handy for post-plane hair and offer protection from the elements. Frankie Jean has an array of adorable caps for non-y'allers, too, with all 50 states represented in the web store. Where to Buy It: Visit Frankie Jean online for this hat and many others! Price (at time of publication): $32
Why We Love Them: The Yoto Mini is an excellent gadget for kids on the go. Physical cards allow children to expand their imagination through audiobooks, music, activities, and educational audio. Manager of Editorial Megan Shute purchased the mini-player for her daughter's 4th birthday earlier this year ahead of an overseas move and has been endlessly impressed: "Not only did it replace her standard sound machine with its white noise options, but it has given us another portable screen-free entertainment option for at home and while traveling. The Yoto is also perfect for anyone who asks what your child wants for the holidays — cards for their new Yoto collection, please!" Where to Buy Them: Yoto is available on their website and Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $69.99 for player
Why We Love Them: The Vuori Performance Joggers might just be the most comfortable piece of clothing we own. The buttery-soft, stretchy material is the perfect weight, and the slim yet relaxed fit is one of the most universally flattering styles we've tried. Engagement Editor Meg Archer has gifted these to many people over the last few years: "I have yet to hear anything but rave reviews (and a bit of friendly shaming for spawning new obsessions). Don't be surprised if these just so happen to, umm... multiply... in your closet. I couldn't stop at just one pair." Bonus: The matching Vuori Halo Performance Hoodie is one of our favorite lightweight layers for all types of travel! Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From Vuori Price (at time of publication): $94
Why We Love Them: If you have a friend or family member who loves to travel and loves bags (who doesn't?), then this Calpak tote bag is the ultimate gift. When I say ultimate, I mean it, because this is the ultimate bag. My own tote bag is pictured above, when used on an overnight trip. I've also used it as a carry-on bag on flights, to tote sports equipment around for my kids, and for a weekend getaway. It is much larger than it looks in this photo and keeps everything organized. It also wipes clean! Where to Buy Them: Calpak has countless travel bags, but you can find this particular one on their website. Price (at time of publication): $131.75
Why We Love Them: I've purchased two of these portable hammocks with lightweight frames throughout the years — one as a gift for my father and one for myself after realizing how fantastic the hammock was. While it's not a travel product, per se, it has made my everyday life feel more like a vacation, something we could all use a bit more of these days. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $69.99
Why We Love Them: All of the staff at Only In Your State loves to represent their roots and Wear Your Roots allows you to do that in a fashionable - and comfortable - way. We love the wears from this Montana-based company and we happen to believe that these hoodies, shirts, hats, and more make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: Shop now on the Wear Your Roots website Price (at time of publication): Varies by Product
Why We Love It: It's taken several trips for me to figure out my perfect "weekender bag that's TSA approved," but I've found my perfect carry on with the TOBIQ Colorado 30L. An Instagram ad caught my eye during a late-night scroll session and I was intrigued by the colorful compartments and versatility of the bag, which can be carried as a duffle or as a backpack (I prefer the backpack for even weight distribution and airport navigation.) Made of durable, weather-resistant recycled materials, I've stashed this bag under my seat and in the overhead compartment; it's easy to maneuver and the top zip pocket is perfect for easy phone/ID access. Bonus: I loved this carry on bag so much, I purchased TOBIQ's Toiletry Bag; it fits perfectly inside one of the Colorado's four compartments and has a smart, intuitive design with the brand's signature "plethora of zippered pouches and pockets."
Where to Buy Them: Visit tobiqtravel.com to purchase the Colorado 30L and/or Toiletry Bag. Price (at time of publication): $199 (Colorado 30L)/$69 (Toiletry Bag)
Why We Love Them: The Zestt Dreamsoft Travel Scarf doubles as a blanket, making it the perfect travel accessory for year-round adventures – especially on airplanes! Made from organic cotton and easy to wash and care for, we have even used this piece as a makeshift picnic blanket while traveling. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $50
Why I Love It: This raincoat is absolutely perfect: it's light (12.4 ounces!) and super packable, "self stuffing" into one of its pockets in a Houdini-like feat. The hood is generously sized to fit over a hat and has a cord-and-hook design that keeps rain out (seriously -- this photo was taken after a trip to Portland, Oregon, where its water resistance was put to the test!). I purchased my Torrentshellfive years ago and it still looks brand new, the fabric has never snagged or ripped despite being put through the ringer! Bonus: The Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Rain Jacket comes in men's sizes, too! Where to Buy It: Buy it now on REI. Price (at time of publication): $179 (both men's and women's)
Why We Love Them: I love gifting books. Maybe it's the writer in me or the nostalgia I feel every time I sit down and open up an actual book. Coffee table books make for great gifts and I absolutely love this collection of photography of New York City. Whether you know someone who loves NYC or has a wanderlust for the Big Apple, this gorgeous book just needs a bow on top and it's ready to gift. Where to Buy Them: Buy this book and others in the collection on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $19.78
Why We Love Them: A well-stocked first aid kit is essential for any traveler, and we love these small Welly kits. They're the perfect option to keep in your car, diaper bag, or carry-on for accidents on the go. Another excellent stocking stuffer for anyone in your life. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Walmart Price (at time of publication): $9.70
Why We Love Them: The OluKai Pehuea Lī Sneaker is lightweight and breathable, but also extremely comfortable and surprisingly supportive. It's our go-to shoe when we know we're going to be on our feet all day! We love that they can be worn as either sneakers or slides, so they're easy to slip off when going through TSA checks. Plus, the style goes with just about everything. Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From OluKai Price (at time of publication): $110
Why I Love It: Fact: Airplanes are notoriously dry, dry, dry. No matter how much water I drink both before and during the flight, I always find myself in a hydration deficit for days. My skin feels so tight and parched during flights, and while I've been known to slap on a sheet mask at 12,000 feet, my 11 year old's mortification on a recent trip had me rethinking this strategy. My solution? BioRepublic's Lost Baggage biocellulose eye masks. These mini moisturizers contain an uber-hydrating cocktail of peptides, hyaluronic acid, squalene, rose water, and vitamin E that feel oh-so-refreshing on parched skin. Bonus: Each of these little masks has enough moisture that I'm able to massage the excess into the rest of my face after my brief, in-flight spa moment. Where to Buy It: I have a BioRepublic Lost Baggage Under Eye Emergency Repair Mask Subscribe & Save order through Amazon -- you'll get a slight discount if you set this up! Price (at time of publication): 3/$15.00
Why I Love It: I am a dedicated Stanley girl, but when I travel, I like to keep things as light and portable as possible. A recent trip to Washington D.C. had me singing the praises of my Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle, especially after paying $6 for a tiny bottle of water the afternoon we arrived and embarked sans water. I love the bottle's muted color options (I have the Hydaway in Twilight), sturdy handle, and fuss-free cleaning; fully extended it holds 17 ounces of water, making this smart little number perfect for filling up on the go. Where to Buy Them: The Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle is available at several online merchants; I purchased through REI. Available here on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $27.95.
Why We Love Them: This is one of those things that we don't know how we traveled without them. Packing cubes keep things organized, save space in a suitcase, and take the pain out of the packing process. If you know and love someone who travels, this set would make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: There are so many options for packing cubes on Amazon, but we particularly LOVE this set. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 for 8 cubes
Why We Love Them: I've been a fan of Beis for years now, starting with the Weekender (it’s my absolute favorite travel bag for short car trips or flying and is surprisingly roomy). I recently purchased another Beis item — the backpack. With a padded interior sleeve, two water bottle pockets, and plenty of organization built-in — we’re talking zippered interior pockets, pen slots, a key leash, and more — this is the best backpack I’ve ever owned. It also has a full-zip opening, so it’s easy to pack, and the trolley pass-through makes it the perfect carry-on companion. This olive beauty is officially my new favorite personal item while traveling, and I’ve already brought it on several trips. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Beis Price (at time of publication): $88
Why We Love Them: We bought this set of two accessory organizers for a recent trip and think they would make a fun stocking stuffer filled with all sorts of small and useful travel goodies — chapstick, hair ties, mini lotions, bandaids, etc. The gift recipient can then use the organizers for travel. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $17.66
Why We Love It: The sleek style of the Away Everywhere Zip Backpack looks at home in just about any environment, making it a great transition bag if you need to hop right from a flight into a work meeting (or want to start exploring as soon as you land). It's water-resistant, has a padded laptop sleeve to keep your devices safe, and the full wrap-around zipper makes it incredibly easy to grab what you need in a cramped airplane seat. I love it! Where To Buy It:Buy Now From Away Price (at time of publication): $195
Why We Love It: Engagement Editor Meg Archer recently travel-testedthis high-end aluminum travel case, and it can only be described as the Lamborghini of Luggage: "The Sterling Pacific 40L Travel Case is hands down the best I've ever owned or reviewed. It's stunning inside and out, timelessly stylish, and rolls like a dream. Honestly, I didn't know luggage could move like this." It's undeniably a splurge, but if you're looking for a piece of eye-catching yet understated luxury-tier luggage, this is it. Where To Buy It: Buy Now From Sterling Pacific Price (at time of publication): $2,150
Why We Love It: Throw out all your assumptions about generators. The Anker Power Bank Portable Generator is all-electric (so it's totally silent), super compact, and has a massive 60,000 mAh capacity that can power multiple devices dozens of times on a single charge. It also retains an impressive 85% charge after a whole year of non-use, making it absolutely vital during emergencies. This bad boy kept us in touch with family during a multi-day blackout, but we also love it for camping trips and off-grid adventures. Where To Buy It:Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $149.99
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If you need anymore ideas for the best travel gifts of the season, we have you covered. Check out more of our travel-themed gift guides...
If there's one thing Michiganders can be proud of, it's our stunning autumns. Every year, when the leaves start turning, thousands of Great Lake State fans take a look at our road trip packing list to prepare for a road trip filled with Michigan's spectacular foliage. But if you're looking for the best fall day trip in Michigan, consider visiting the Keweenaw Peninsula. This picturesque area is the perfect setting for your autumn adventures.
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Start with a visit to the Copper Harbor Light. This historic lighthouse hugs the harbor shore and has been a fixture of the area since its construction in 1848. Now included on the National Register of Historic Places, Copper Harbor Light is an iconic building and a must-see for fall visitors.
Of course, to see this idyllic lighthouse, you'll have to visit Fort Wilkins Historic State Park. First established in 1923, this former military base has become a remarkable public view of Lake Superior and boasts other fascinating buildings from the fort's not-so-recent past.
To see more of this stunning region, take the Brockway Mountain Drive. This nine-mile scenic route curves along the crest of the Keweenaw Fault, curling visitors up the Brockway Mountain, a 1,320-foot-tall volcanic land formation that affords you jaw-dropping peninsula views.
Named for Daniel D. Brockway, one of the area's first European inhabitants, this vantage point was developed through a 1933 Depression-era work program. On a clear day, you can see all the way to Isle Royale from the peak!
For even more al fresco fun, check out the Estivant Pines Wilderness Nature Sanctuary, a 508-acre preserve popular for its well-maintained trails and gorgeous foliage.
To truly get in touch with the landscape, learn to forage from a local expert. The Keweenaw Peninsula is renowned for its mushrooms, just make sure you go out with a group and identify your finds correctly.
To put a button on a perfect fall day, go for drinks at a Copper Harbor institution. Brickside Brewery has delivered mouth-watering craft brews to the area since 2012. Supporting small businesses is a great way to give back to the vibrant Keweenaw Peninsula community.
Have you been looking for the best fall day trip in Michigan? Look no further than the Keweenaw Peninsula. This picturesque destination is the perfect backdrop to lifelong autumn memories and overflows with fantastic outdoor adventures that bring you to the best of a Great Lake State fall. Bundle up and book your excursion. The Keweenaw Peninsula awaits you.
Where & When To See Fall Foliage In Michigan
Where can you find the best fall foliage in Michigan, and when will it peak? Though it's difficult (if not impossible) to determine something as amazingly natural as the changing of the leaves down to the date, we can take a look at past patterns and make predictions based on those. Our amazing state parks are perfect for fall foliage festivities, but you can meander anywhere with trees to enjoy it.
Typically, the leaves really start shifting from green to shades of gold, oranges, and reds by the end of September; come the end of October, things are already winding down - so get ready to get out, view, and enjoy ASAP!
Know Before You Go
Entry fees for Michigan state parks vary between residents and non-residents; vehicles start at $14, motorcycles at $7, and commercial passes (for field trips and large groups) are $21.
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Wondering about places to eat while leaf peeping? Should you find yourself near Frankenmuth, you should definitely check out the legendary delight that is Station 100. It's one of the best places to eat in Michigan, and it makes for a perfect way to fuel up before or after the leaf hunting. Seeking out the perfect place to sleep, preferably among the foliage you seek? No worries - check out this absolutely incredible, totally unique Airbnb in Michigan that you'll never forget.
